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How do I clean Invisalign when I am sick?
When it’s cold outside or there is a pandemic risk, all this creates an environment that can cause sickness. Viruses like the flu, RSV, COVID, and many more start circulating when the temperature drops. Unfortunately, people with low immune systems are more prone to infection. In this blog post, we will discuss how these concerns are essential for understanding the care of Invisalign aligners and other appliances. Sigma Dental Clinic in Chicago provides proper guidance on cleaning dental devices and hygiene.
Should I Remove Invisalign During Sickness?
Whether you are under a cold attack or feeling unwell, it’s natural to wonder whether to remove Invisalign or keep them in. People usually do not feel up to it. Dentists recommend removing Invisalign briefly, but removing them is risky until you keep them safe and clean. Your aligners are more prone to germs if you do not keep them properly clean.
How to Sanitize Your Aligners?
After being sick, it’s essential to sanitize your aligners. Use lukewarm water to rinse them thoroughly, then gently brush with a soft-bristle toothbrush to remove debris. Don’t use toothpaste and colored soap; they leave residue and damage the aligners’ clarity.
How Do You Disinfect an Aligner?
To safely disinfect your Invisalign aligners, soak them in a mixture of equal parts water and hydrogen peroxide for about 15 minutes. After washing, rinse them thoroughly under clean water before placing them back in your mouth. Avoid potent cleaning agents like bleach or alcohol, which can damage the aligners. Always follow the care instructions provided by your dentist.
What’s the Best Thing to Clean Invisalign With?
The best way to clean Invisalign aligners is by gently brushing them with a soft toothbrush under lukewarm water. A 50/50 mix of water and hydrogen peroxide works well for deeper disinfection. Never use toothpaste, as it can be abrasive and cause scratches. Also, avoid hot water, which can warp the aligners.
Should I Wear My Invisalign If I’m Sick (with COVID or the Flu)?
If you’re feeling sick with COVID-19, the flu, or any other contagious illness, it’s usually best to pause wearing your Invisalign aligners. This prevents contaminating the trays and gives your body time to recover. Store your aligners in their case, keep them clean, and focus on staying hydrated and maintaining oral hygiene. Once you’re well, disinfect your aligners before resuming use.
How Do You Disinfect a Retainer After Your Sickness?
The need to disinfect and clean hygiene for retainers extends more than for Invisalign. To prevent infection or discomfort, thoroughly clean your retainers after being sick. For this purpose, follow the same routine cleaning process as you do daily for oral health. Cleaning them properly is crucial, regardless of whether you use retainers more often than you use Invisalign. Use soft bristle brushes and warm water to clean your retainers.
For deep cleaning, you can use white vinegar and baking soda. Soak for 15 minutes, then rinse with water. Avoid dishwashing soap, toothpaste, and detergents, as they are unsafe if you ingest them. You may also consult your dentist for any other medical cleaning solutions. But don’t forget to clean your retainer without washing it —don’t put it into your mouth.
Invisalign vs Braces: Cleaning & Maintenance Comparison
| Aspect | Invisalign Aligners | Traditional Braces |
|---|---|---|
| Removability | Removable for eating, drinking, and cleaning | Fixed to the teeth |
| Brushing Teeth | Easy (aligners are removed) | Challenging (must clean around brackets and wires) |
| Flossing | Normal flossing possible | Requires floss threaders or water flosser |
| Cleaning Device | Aligners cleaned separately | Brackets and wires cleaned in place |
| Aligner/Bracket Cleaning | Rinse, brush gently, use cleaning tablets/crystals | Brush carefully around each bracket |
| Time Required to Clean | Short, but done multiple times per day | Longer cleaning sessions required |
| Tools Needed | Soft brush, cleaning solution, optional crystals | Orthodontic brush, floss threader, interdental brushes |
| Food Restrictions | Remove aligners before eating — no food restrictions | Many food restrictions (avoid sticky, hard, chewy foods) |
| Risk of Food Getting Stuck | Low (aligners not worn while eating) | High (food easily trapped in brackets and wires) |
| Risk of Staining | Aligners can discolor if not cleaned properly | Brackets can stain teeth if cleaning is poor |
| Mouth Rinse | Optional, but helps maintain oral hygiene | Recommended to reduce bacteria in hard-to-clean areas |
| Hygiene Discipline Needed | High (must brush after every meal before reinserting) | High (must be cleaned carefully at least twice daily) |
Keep Your Invisalign Clear and Clean with Sigma Dental Clinic
Maintaining clean Invisalign aligners is essential for effective treatment and a confident smile. At Sigma Dental Clinic, we offer expert tips and professional guidance to help you keep your aligners spotless and odor-free. Schedule a visit today and let us support you on your journey to a straighter, healthier smile.
